Artwork

Rococo Wall Design with a Fountain and Swans [verso]

Rococo Wall Design with a Fountain and Swans [verso], by Jean-Baptiste Joseph Pater, chalk, 1729
Rococo Wall Design with a Fountain and Swans [verso], by Jean-Baptiste Joseph Pater, chalk, 1729

Rococo Wall Design with a Fountain and Swans [verso] is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Jean-Baptiste Joseph Pater. It dates from 1729 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

To learn more about the Baroque movement, explore the works of artists like Jean-Baptiste Joseph Pater, who created this piece in 1729.

This painting is a red chalk sketch on paper, featuring a fountain and swans. The image is a counterproof, meaning it's a reversed copy of the original drawing.

The sketch is detailed, with intricate designs and patterns. The artist has used different shades of red chalk to create depth and texture.

To learn more about the Baroque movement, explore the works of artists like Jean-Baptiste Joseph Pater, who created this piece in 1729.

Overview

Jean-Baptiste Joseph Pater's 'Rococo Wall Design with a Fountain and Swans' (verso) is a red chalk drawing on two joined sheets of laid paper, dated circa 1729. The work is a counterproof, presenting a reversed image of the original sketch.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a Rococo-themed wall design centered around a fountain accompanied by swans, reflecting the era's penchant for ornate, naturalistic motifs in decorative arts.

Technique & Style

Pater utilized red chalk to achieve detailed, intricate patterns and designs. Variations in chalk shading impart depth and texture to the composition, characteristic of Rococo's emphasis on light and delicacy.

History & Provenance

Created around 1729, the piece exemplifies Pater's contribution to the Rococo style during its flourishing period. Provenance details are not specified in available information.

Context

This work aligns with the broader Baroque to Rococo transition, where artists like Pater explored more lighthearted, ornamental themes, often for decorative purposes in aristocratic settings.

Legacy

As part of Pater's oeuvre, 'Rococo Wall Design...' contributes to the historical record of Rococo's influence on 18th-century European decorative arts, though its individual impact on the art historical canon is not prominently distinguished.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.